London suffers from a severe flea market addiction.
It’s evident in the dozens of markets that fill up the streets on the weekend, a place where crowds of hungry shoppers head out for an entire day just to pick up the latest bargain. Greenwich Market in London is one such place, a weekly tradition for many Londoners who insist that shopping for knick-knacks, toys, antiques, and books is an art form and even a science. Greenwich Market is conveniently located next to some of London’s historic sites and attractions, so it’s easy to escape for a weekend just to take in the entire experience.
The market began as the Royal Charter Market, a place for traders to sell food and supplies, and a spot for slaughterhouses to conduct business. As the market grew and changed management, it evolved into a market for arts and crafts, antiques, and vintage clothing as well. Today, the market is one of London’s top places to explore the works of local artisans, designers, and photographers.
Antique lovers revel in the collectibles available at Greenwich Market. It’s here that you can pretend you’re on the Antiques Roadshow and really find some terrific bargains. From ceramic plates to wall hangings, home furnishings to polished brass accessories, Greenwich Market is home to dozens of antique stalls that can keep you busy for an entire day. Since you will be spending quite some time here, stop by any of the neighborhood cafes for a well-deserved cup of tea!
You’ll also find a number of war and marine souvenirs from eras gone by, collections of all sorts of posters, old housewares, and knick-knacks that sailors and soldiers collected and forgot about. Browse paintings, old postcards, collectible coins, and even a few pieces of military clothing that have been tracked down by collectors and presented here in the great open-air market.
Greenwich Market is split into both an outdoor and indoor market; it’s one of the few covered markets in London, so it’s perfect for rain y weekends. When you’re done making your rounds here, head over to the Cutty Sark for a visit. This historic ship is fun to tour and explore on any given day, and the tour operators will gladly share a few stories and historical factoids about the Cutty Sark and its great explorations.
Head to the Greenwich Observatory for one of London’s best attractions; here you’ll learn all about the real history of Greenwich time, and can pick up a few souvenirs from the observatory’s gift shop. Be sure to stop by the 24 hour Greenwich clock on your way out!
Greenwich Market is held only on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You’ll find it at Greenwich High Road in Greenwich, and this historic town is full of places to explore after a day of bargain hunting.
